Newcastle United reading themselves for triple bid for stars

Mikel Merino, Aleksandar Mitrovic and Ayoze Perez have all been linked with a St James’s Park exit – with clubs said to be readying bids for the Newcastle United trio.

Merino is reportedly being eyed by Spanish side Real Betis, who have also been credited with an interest in countryman Perez in recent weeks.

Spanish outlet ABC de Sevilla claim talks have already taken place between Betis and Merino’s representatives and there was a ‘positive’ outcome. As a result, they will launch a bid for the player who United signed from Borussia Dortmund last season for around £8million.

Rafa Benitez is a big fan of the player, who, following injury, played a peripheral part in the Magpies Premier League safety bid, despite bursting on the scene at the start of the campaign.

But, should a substantial bid be received, it could be the case that Benitez allows the player to depart, if he can line up a better replacement, especially with funds set to be tight again at the Gallowgate.